Croydon's Mental Health Service User Group. The Hear Us Guide to Croydon's Mental Health and Wellbeing Services

Hear Us Croydon 2015 Croydon's Mental Health Service User Group The Hear Us Guide to Croydon's Mental Health and Wellbeing Services Chapter 5: Freed...
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Hear Us Croydon 2015

Croydon's Mental Health Service User Group

The Hear Us Guide to Croydon's Mental Health and Wellbeing Services Chapter 5: Freedom Passes Homelessness and Housing Council Tax and Housing Benefit & Cold Weather Grants, Funds and loans Money worries and Debt Food Hubs PIP and Universal Credit

To promote, educate, communicate and empower, for the benefit and interest of people affected by mental health issues

Hear Us: Promoting Positive Mental Health The Hear Us Guide to Croydon's Mental Health and Wellbeing Services is for you if you; • • • • • • • • •

or someone you care for is experiencing mental health problems need support to meet new people and try new activities need support to access voluntary work, training, education or employment want to know where to turn in a crisis want information about support groups and self help want advice about benefits, debt or housing issues want to know about organisations that can help with specific issues are interested in getting involved in planning and improving our Mental Health Services want access to useful Telephone Numbers and Websites

020 8681 6888   [email protected]  www.hear-us.org Hear Us ↸ Orchard House,

15a Purley Road South Croydon CR2 6EZ



Company No.6891337 Charity No.1135535

Hear Us would like to thank the Maudsley Charity for funding this guide 2

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Section 5: Contents Freedom Passes & Concessionary Travel Immediate Needs Chart

4 5-9

Homelessness and Housing Support

10 - 19

Council Tax, Housing Benefit & Cold Weather

20 - 25

Other grants, funds and loans

26 - 27

Money Worries & Debt problems

28 - 31

Food Hubs/Drop Ins for those in need of Food

32 - 33

DLA to PIP Benefit Changes - Don't Panic!

34 - 41

Universal Credit

42 - 44

Benefits - help, advice and contact numbers

45 - 48

Section 5 of this guide provides information about Croydon's; Freedom passes, Homelessness and housing support. Council Tax, Housing Benefit and cold weather payments. Grants, funds and loans. Money Worries and debt problems. Where to find and access food hubs for those in need of food. Changes with DLA and a guide to the moving onto PIP - so don't panic. Universal Credit and its affect of your wallet. And loads of useful help adive and contact numbers for benefits.

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Freedom Passes & Concessionary Travel

Freedom Passes permit free travel on: Buses, Trams and London Underground 24 hrs a day, every day Trains Monday to Friday after 9.30am Weekends and bank holidays 24 hours a day Disabled Person's and Older Person's Freedom Passes also allow you to travel on all local buses in Britain. If you have a mental health problem, even if you do not recieve the mobility component of DLA, you may still be illigable to apply. e.g. if you take medication and have side effects which mean you cannot drive or you need a freedom pass to travel to medical appointments, and daycentres 020 8726 7100 ext 62111 or 63219

 

[email protected]

 www.freedompass.org Lost or Stolen Passes  0845 275 7054 or 020 7934 9633

Getting Around, Mobility & Travel Transport for London

Provides details of train times & fastest routes

London Buses

Customer Services

Shop Mobility London Taxi Card Blue Badge Scheme 4

Electric Scooter or Wheelchairs hire Allows disabled people to use licensed black cabs at a reduced rate Free or concessionary parking

  

0843 222 1234



020 8726 6100



020 8726 7100

0845 300 7000 020 8688 7366

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24/7 phone Line

Weekday office hours

Croydon Reach

Croydon Council Support Needs Assessment and Placement team (Known as the SNAP team)

Emergency Duty Team

Verified rough sleepers

Resident in Croydon and not subject to immigration control or no recourse to public funds

Resident in Croydon and not subject to immigration control or no recourse to public funds

Urgent Temporary Accommodation

Urgent temporary accommodation

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Out of Hours

24/7 phone Line

Urgent shelter currently sleeping rough on the streets of Croydon

No Second Night Out Project

Rough sleeping for the first time

Availability

Urgent shelter sleeping rough for the first time

Organisation

Eligibility

Immediate Need

This provides information on where to refer people who are rough sleeping, destitute, or vulnerably housed and in need of immediate or urgent help from an appropria in the Winter Months te service.

Immediate needs table

 020 8726 6000

Emergency Duty Team Croydon Council. Out of hour and weekend

 020 8760 5498

Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon, CR0 1EA

Outside of these times, hostels may provide emergency assistance

 020 8760 5498

[email protected]

 0870 383 33333

www.nosecondnightout.org.uk

 0870 383 3333

Contact and other details

Immediate needs table

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Requires Food and Drinks

Every night of the year between 2115 to 2200 Mondays between 1100 and 1500

Nightwatch meeting point

The Well drop-in centre

Anybody sleeping rough or Vulnerably housed

24/7 phone Line

Croydon Reach Turnaround Centre

Clients must be able to abstain from drugs & alcohol overnight during their stay Clients with recent history of violence to others or recent risk of self–harm /suicide will not be considered

Weekdays office hours

1st November – 31st March

Availability

Croydon Council Support needs Assessment and Placement team (known as the SNAP TEAM )

Croydon Churches Floating. Shelter for rough sleepers

Organisation

Verified rough sleepers with a connection to Croydon (they do not need to have recourse to public funds)

Verified rough sleepers with a connection to Croydon (they do not need to have recourse to public funds)

Urgent temporary accommodation in the Winter Months

Urgent temporary accommodation During prolonged periods of extreme cold - defined as when the night time temperature is forecast to be at 0 degrees or below for 3 or more consecutive nights

Eligibility

Immediate Need

or Salvation Army Booth Road Croydon

 020 8680 9924

Queens Gardens Croydon

Lunch

Food and hot drinks

51/55 South End Croydon CR0 1BF

[email protected]

 0208 760 5530

 0870 383 3333

Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon, CR0 1EA

 020 8760 5498

Access to the shelter is via Croydon Reach rough sleeper’s service

 0870 383 3333

Contact and other details

Immediate needs table

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Needs medical attention for their physical Health

Immediate need Eligibility Organisation Availability Contact details Other details

Requires Food and Drinks

Immediate Need

Anybody sleeping rough or Vulnerably housed who needs medical appointment but is not registered with GP practice

Croydon Health Services Homeless Health Team

Croydon University Hospital A&E

Anybody sleeping rough or Vulnerably housed who requires urgent medical treatment for serious and life-threatening illness and injuries

Croydon Tabernacle

Anybody sleeping rough or Vulnerably housed

St Mildred’s Church

East Croydon United Reform Church

Anybody sleeping rough or Vulnerably housed

Anybody sleeping rough or Vulnerably housed

Organisation

Eligibility

Mon - Fri 0900 to 1700 by appointment only (They usually have same day appointments)

24/7

Sundays between 1300 and 1800 in winter between 1300 and 1500 in summer

Sundays between 0800 and 0900

Thursdays between 1200 noon to 1500

Availability

Lunch

Full English Breakfast

Hot Meals

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The Rainbow Centre 141 Brigstock Road Thornton Heath CR7 7JN

 020 8251 8280

530 London Road, Thornton Heath Surrey CR7 7Y

 020 8401 3016  020 8401 3601

Bingham Road Addiscombe

38-40 Parsons Mead West Croydon

Addiscombe Grove – just past East Croydon Station

Contact and other details

Immediate needs table

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8 Beckenham Beacon NHS Urgent Care Centre

Anybody who requires urgent medical treatment for minor illness and injuries

Needs medical attention for their physical Health

Mon - Fri 0900 -1700

Open every Mon, Tues, Weds and Fri 1000 - 1600

Men’s Advice Line

Family Justice Centre Croydon

Women fleeing domestic violence

Men’s fleeing domestic violence

Victims of Domestic violence in Croydon

Is being subjected to domestic violence

National Domestic Violence Helpline

Substance users (e.g drugs or alcohol) over 18

In need of substance misuse support 24/7 freephone line

 0845 056 0099

Out of hours helpline

Westminster Drug Project Croydon outreach

Anyone requiring a mental health assessment

24 Hrs Patient and Liaison Service

0800 - 2000

Availability

Mental Health Crisis support

South London and Maudsley Hospital (SLaM)

Organisation

Eligibility

Immediate Need

[email protected]

69 Park Lane Croydon CR0 1JD

 020 8688 0100

[email protected]

www.mensadviceline.org.uk

 0808 801 0327

National Freephone

www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk

 0808 2000 247

WDP Croydon Outreach Action House 28 Sydenham Road, Croydon [email protected]

Office hours 0208 662 4792

[email protected]

 0800 731 2864

Beckenham Beacon 379 Croydon Road Beckenham Kent BR3 3QL

 01689 866667

Contact and other details

Immediate needs table

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Lines open 0900 -1700 Mon - fir

Lines open 0900 -1700 Mon - Fri

Lines open 0900 -1700 Mon - Fri

Croydon Council Croydon Discretionary Support- crisis payment Croydon CouncilDepartment of Adult Service Health & Housing Croydon Council –Department of children families& learning

People with no recourse to public funds

Anyone over 16 living in Croydon in receipt of benefits who cannot meet their short-term financial needs

Aged 18 or over and ordinarily residents in the borough this includes asylum seekers refugees and people without resource to public funds

Parent or family residing in Croydon with children (under 18) in need

Is a Vulnerable adult that has social care needs

Has a child or children that need Support

www.croydon.gov.uk

CROYDON

Lines open 0900 -1700 Mon - Fri

Croydon Council No Recourse to public funds Team

Has no money Croydon Discretionary Support

Availability

Organisation

Eligibility

Immediate Need

 020 8726 6000

Bernard Weatherill House 8 Mint Walk Croydon CR0 1EA www.croydon.gov.uk

Outside regular opening hours and in an emergency call

 020 8726 6000

 020 8726 6400

www.croydon.gov.uk

Outside regular opening hours and in an emergency call

www.croydon.gov.uk

[email protected]

www.croydon.gov.uk These are crisis payments to avoid serious hardship and risks

Bernard Weatherill House 8 Mint Walk, Croydon CR0 1EA

Other details

Bernard Weatherill House 8 Mint Walk Croydon CR0 1EA

 020 8726 6500

are crisis payment to avoid serious hardship and risks

 020 8760 5719

 020 8726 6000

Contact Details

Immediate needs table

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Housing and Homelessness Support

Who to contact if you or someone you know is at Risk of Homelessness Croydon Council Housing Team should be able to provide advice and assistance if you or someone you care about are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The council has a duty to provide housing or other support to some homeless people who are in "priority need" of housing. You may be deemed vulnerable and therefore in priority need for a number of reasons, including suffering mental illness, but not everyone who suffers mental illness will be assessed as being a Priority Need. 020 8726 6000 (for Housing Choose Option 2)  www.croydon.gov.uk/doitonline 

If you are Vulnerable e.g. due to Severe Mental Illness and need help with housing homelessness Support Needs Assessment & Placement Team (SNAP) Central assessment and placement service for vulnerable young people and adults, including homeless people, those with a history of offending and people with mental health issues who would benefit from supported housing. Access to supported housing services where appropriate, or signposting and onward referrals to other appropriate services. 020 8760 5498 SNAP Duty Co-ordinator  9.30am – 5pm Monday to Friday   [email protected]  www.croydon.gov.uk Bernard Weatherill House 8 Mint Walk, ↸ Croydon CR0 1EA 10

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Housing and Homelessness Support

Shelter London Advice Line: 0344 515 1540  Opening Times: Mon, Tues,  Thurs and Friday 9am – 12.30pm and 2.30pm - 6pm

Saturday 10-12pm

National Helpline: 080 8800 4444  The helpline is open from 8am - 8pm on weekdays  and 8am -5pm on weekends and they give advice and



information to anyone who is homeless or has housing problems





[email protected]

www.shelter.org.uk  Shelter, the leading housing & homelessness charity, is holding FREE advice sessions at Mind in Croydon (Orchard House) to advise on Housing issues on Thursday afternoons. You will receive 20 minutes of advice and if necessary may be booked onto further appointments for follow up work If you wish to make an appointment please contact Mind in  Croydon at Orchard House –Mary on 0208 253 8211.



Mind in Croydon Orchard House 15a Purley Road South Croydon, CR2 6EZ







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Housing and Homelessness Support

Hestia: Croydon Generic Floating Support Service Hestia has been selected by the London Borough of Croydon as the new provider to deliver the Croydon Generic Floating Support Service. Hestia supporting people with mental health needs. Each year they provide housing and support for more than 1,200 people who suffer with their mental health. Often their needs are severe and enduring. They provide care homes for people who need 24-hour support, shared houses for those who are able to live more independently and further shared accommodation for those who have become homeless as a result of their mental health. They also provide floating support services to help people continue living in their own homes as well as day center resource service”. New referrals should be sent to the following email address.



[email protected]

To find out more about Hestia and the services they provide visit: www.hestia.org 

 020 8667 2100

Migrant Help Migrant Help is a UK charity that has over 50 years experience of delivering support and advice services to migrants in the UK. We provide individuals with the resources and support they need to find safety, access appropriate services and information and develop greater independence 01304 203977  12

migrant help

 www.migranthelp.org

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Housing and Homelessness Support

Refugee Action For thirty years, they've been standing up for people who've fled persecution, violence and harassment. If you need help to claim asylum or get asylum support, please contact Asylum Help. 0808 800 0007  Monday – Friday: 9am – 5pm  www.refugee-action.org.uk 

Asylum Help Asylum Help, part of the Migrant Help organisation, provides free independent advice and guidance to asylum seekers across the UK. Migrant Help is a UK charity that has been delivering support services to migrants in the UK since 1963 They can advise on issues such as: • How to claim asylum • Financial support • Finding legal representation • The asylum process • Accessing health care • Accommodation support • Any other asylum issues 0808 8000 630 or own language number  Monday - Friday: 8.30am - 7pm  www.asylumhelpuk.org  Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

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Housing and Homelessness Support

Croydon Reach Rough Sleeper Service Croydon Reach helps rough sleepers and people caught up in a street lifestyle in the borough of Croydon. Croydon Reach provides a street outreach service, a short stay hostel resettlement and a hospital discharge scheme to rough sleepers in Croydon. After rough sleepers have been helped off the streets and into temporary accommodation, Croydon Reach staff work to help them into longer term housing. Croydon Reach staff work with people to help them address any drug or alcohol or mental health issues they may have. Staff also work to support people back into training and work. 020 7870 8855  [email protected]  www.thamesreach.org.uk 

The National Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hours)

 Freephone Helpline 0808 2000 247

 www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk If you are a woman in immediate danger please call 999

For women and children. Against domestic violence

Helpline Run in partnership between Women's Aid and Refuge www.womensaid.org.uk  0117 944 44 11  (general enquiries only



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[email protected]

www.refuge.org.uk 

020 7395 7700   [email protected]

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Housing and Homelessness Support

Crisis

Crisis is the national charity for single homeless people. They are dedicated to ending homelessness by delivering life-changing services and campaigning for change. 0300 636 1967   [email protected]





www.crisis.org.uk

Crisis, 66 Commercial Street, London E1 6LT

Anyone can become homeless, and sleeping rough can be dangerous and can damage your health. The longer someone sleeps rough, the greater the risk that they will become trapped on the streets and vulnerable to becoming a victim of crime, developing drug or alcohol problems, or experiencing problems with their health. 0300 500 0914   [email protected] www.streetlink.org.uk 

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Housing and Homelessness Support

Night Watch Nightwatch volunteers are out every evening in the center of Croydon giving food and other help to homeless and other vulnerable people . Night watch’s core activity is providing prime and direct support for homeless people in Croydon through work undertaken solely by volunteers. They help people at every level of homelessness, from the street homeless to those in hostels and bed and breakfast accommodation and vulnerable former homeless people who need continuing support if they are not to become homeless again. Aim of Service is to: • act as first line contact for homeless people, to sign-post them to other agencies • provide urgent and necessary items of food, clothes, toiletries, pots, pans, household goods to homeless people in need • the stabilisation of former homeless people in new accommodation • assist in helping unemployed homeless people (both financially and emotionally) to take up vocational training and education

 Mon to Sun from 9.30pm  www.croydonnightwatch.org.uk



[email protected]

Queen’s Gardens, Park Lane Central Croydon ↸

For people sleeping out Street Rescue may visit and offer  options 0300 500 0914. They want to visit people at a

sleeping place, to prove someone is street homeless.

 Postal address: PO Box 9576, London, SE23 3ZH 16

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Housing and Homelessness Support

Citizens Advice Bureau Croydon CAB Service provides free, confidential and impartial advice and information on a wide range of issues, including debts, welfare benefits, housing, employment, consumer rights and relationships. Opening times are subject to volunteer staff availability. Assessment appointments at Access Croydon, South Norwood and New Addington are allocated on a ‘first come first served’ basis. Once all appointments are taken, a Reception service will be operated. Appointment slots are often filled very quickly – and you are advised to arrive early.







South Norwood 48-50 Portland Road South Norwood London SE25 4PQ

New Addington 1 Overbury Crescent New Addington CR0 0LR

Access Croydon Bernard Weatherill House 8 Mint Walk Croydon CR0 1EA

Mon

Reception Closed

Reception Closed

9 – 3.30pm

10 – 1pm 2 – 4pm

Tues

10 – 4pm

10 – 4pm

9 – 3.30pm

10 – 1pm 2 – 4pm

Wed

10 – 1.30pm

Reception Closed

9 – 3.30pm

Thurs

10 – 4pm

Reception Closed

9 – 3.30pm

Fri

Reception Closed

Reception Closed

Closed

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 Telephone Advice Line 0208 684 2236

10 – 1pm 2 – 4pm 10 – 1pm 2 – 4pm 10 – 1pm 2 – 4pm 17

Housing and Homelessness Support

Housing advice from CAYSH CAYSH offer housing advice and other services to people aged 14 - 21 who live in the borough Croydon. People aged 14-21, visit the Drop in Zone (see below for days & times) to see how they can help. People aged 22 or older should visit Taberner House between 9:30am and 4:45pm. CAYSH make referrals to other agencies and support groups e.g. careers/employment support, education welfare from schools/ colleges, cultural support groups. They also offer specialist support for particular groups such as young offenders. CAYSH’s housing advice team is now available in the Drop in Zone at the Turnaround Centre, Monday to Friday from 10am to 6:00pm (last arrivals at 5:00pm). 020 8760 5530   [email protected] www.caysh.org  Croydon Turnaround Centre ↸ 51/55 South End

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Croydon CR0 1BF









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Housing and Homelessness Support

 Housing Support: Useful Numbers SNAP team: For Supported Accommodation The SNAP team can be contacted daily



020 87605498

Colleagues linked to the council telephone system



Ext 65498

Young people under 21 please contact a SNAP team member based at the Turnaround Centre



020 8760 5530

For General Enquiries you can e-mail the team: [email protected] Adult Placement Scheme - an alternative to supported housing within a ‘carer’ family home Croydon Council Housing Options Team Croydon Reach for rough sleepers Croydon Women’s Aid For people with drug/alcohol problems For young people leaving local authority care Housing Advice Team Housing Benefit & Council Tax Housing Specialist Line: Mind in Croydon Furniture Service Older people over 65 for an assessment of eligibility for sheltered housing Turnaround Centre for young people Safeguarding Adult Team



020 8726 6500

        

020 8726 6100



020 8726 6500

 

020 8760 5530

0870 383 3333 020 8679 8848 020 8662 4790 020 8239 4290 020 8686 4433 020 8726 7000 020 8726 6100 020 8253 8201

020 8726 6500

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Council Tax, Housing Benefit & Cold Weather

Council Tax Council Tax support (sometimes called Council Tax Reduction) replaced Council Tax Benefit in April 2013. Not everyone has to pay Council Tax. Most eligible adults (i.e. adults aged 18 or over) are liable to pay council tax However, some people are exempt from paying any Council tax, e.g. full time students and people assessed as being severely mentally impaired – if you think this may applys to you, phone the council to ask for more information Some people pay a reduced amount of Council Tax You’ll get 25% off your bill if: • you live on your own or • no-one else in your home counts as an adult You may get Council Tax Support if you are on a low income or claim certain benefits. Your bill could be reduced by up to 100%. Applying for Council Tax Support Who can Apply: You can apply if you own your home, rent, are unemployed or working. What you get depends on: • where you live - each council runs its own scheme • your circumstances (e.g. income, number of children, benefits, residency status) • your household income - this includes savings, pensions and your partner’s income • if your children live with you • if other adults live with you How to Apply for Council Tax Support 20







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Council Tax, Housing Benefit & Cold Weather On line: You can apply for Council Tax Support on line either at home or by visiting Access Croydon in Bernard Weatherill House and using one of the computers – you won’t be able to get hands on help to complete the form but can phone the help line (below) Claiming Council Tax Support on line: 1. Complete the on line claim form



www.croydon.gov.uk/advice/benefits/claim

and 2. Send in the documents you are asked to send (original not photocopies) to the following address: Income and Benefits, ↸

5th floor, Zone A, Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon, CR0 1EA.





Home Visits If you are unable to apply online or are having trouble completing the form, you, or someone who cares for you can ask the council to visit you in your home and complete a form with you. Visiting team contact details:

 020 8667 8336  [email protected] Contacts 020 8726 7000   [email protected] Council Tax Section, ↸ 5th floor, Zone A, Bernard Weatherill House,

8 Mint Walk, Croydon, CR0 1EA.

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Council Tax, Housing Benefit & Cold Weather

Housing Benefit Who can apply: If you’re on a low income, and your savings are below a certain level, whether you’re working or not, and need financial help to pay all or part of your rent, you may be able to get Housing Benefit. How to Apply for Housing Benefit On line (please note that if you get Universal Credit (UC), your housing benefit is calculated in your application for UC. You can’t make a separate claim for HB but should still claim Council Tax Support. You can apply for Housing Benefit on line either at home or by visiting Access Croydon in Bernard Weatherill House and using one of the computers – you won’t be able to get hands on help to complete the form but can phone the help line (below) Claiming Housing Benefit on line: 1. Complete the on line claim form: www.croydon.gov.uk/ advice/benefits/claim and 2. Send in the documents you are asked to send (original not photocopies) to the following address:

↸ Income and Benefits, 5th floor, Zone A,

Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon, CR0 1EA.









Home Visits If you are unable to apply online or are having trouble completing the form, you, or someone who cares for you can ask the council to visit you in your home and complete a form with you. 22

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Council Tax, Housing Benefit & Cold Weather Visiting team contact details: 020 8667 8336  [email protected]  Extra help to pay the rent – Discretionary Housing Payments You may also get extra help for a limited amount of time from the council called a ‘discretionary housing payment’ (DHP) if your Housing Benefit doesn’t cover your rent. Who can apply: When applying, you will need to explain why the payment is needed. Some examples include: • • • •

financial problems personal problems a medical condition the risk of being made homeless

How to apply: You can download an application form



www.croydon.gov.uk/advice/benefits/how/dhp

020 8604 7226   [email protected] Contacts Housing Benefit 020 8726 7000   [email protected] ↸ Housing Benefit Section, London Borough of Croydon,

Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon, CR0 1EA



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Council Tax, Housing Benefit & Cold Weather

Cold Weather Payments Who can apply: Cold Weather Payments can help people who are in receipt of certain benefits with their additional heating costs during winter. A payment will be made for each seven day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March. After each period of very cold weather in your area, you should receive a payment to your account within 14 working days. How to apply: Cold Weather Payments will automatically be paid to you; you should not need to make a claim for them. Tell your pension centre or Jobcentre Plus if you think you should have received a Cold Weather Payment but you have not had one.

Winter Fuel Payments

Who can apply: Winter Fuel Payments are yearly one-off payments of up to £300 to help elderly people pay for their heating in the winter, whatever the temperature. Winter Fuel Payments are paid to men and women over pension credit age (which changes each year). Winter fuel payments will not affect other benefits you may be getting. How to apply: You only need to claim once. After this, you should get it automatically each year, as long as your circumstances do not change. The payment is made into your account in November or December 08459 151515 











Warm Home Discount Scheme

You could get a discount (£140 for 2014/15) on your electricity bill through the Warm Home Discount Scheme. The discount won’t affect your Cold Weather Payment or Winter Fuel Payment. 24

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Council Tax, Housing Benefit & Cold Weather Who can apply: Not everyone gets the discount - you have to qualify and eligibility varies with different energy suppliers (people receiving pension credit and certain vulnerable people, including those on low incomes and disability benefits may qualify). The money isn’t paid to you; it’s a one-off discount on your electricity bill, usually between October and March. You can also qualify for the discount if you use a pre-pay or pay-as-you-go electricity meter (e.g. you could get a voucher to top up your meter) How to Apply: Find out more by contacting your energy supplier in the Spring/Summer of this year for more details and to see if you could qualify for a reduction next winter. What is the Helpline? The Home Heat Helpline is a free service offering practical advice for people concerned about paying their energy bills. The Helpline is staffed by specially trained advisers. It is open from 9am to 6pm Mondays to Fridays. You can access the Helpline by calling 0800 33 66 99 (call 0333 300 33 66 from mobiles). 



chat online to an adviser: www.homeheathelpline.org.uk

Grants to help you pay off an Energy Debt or water bill There are a range of schemes and grants available depending on your energy supplier. NB: regardless of your energy supplier you could apply for help from The British Gas Energy Trust or EDF Energy Trust. One-off payments can be made to people to clear a debt with an energy supplier (awards are given to people who are assessed as having a priority need, e.g. due to a disability which could include a mental health problem). Further Assistance Payments are made to people who have an Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

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Other grants, funds and loans exceptional need for help with expenses such as funeral costs, phone or other utility bill arrears, essential household items and in exceptional cases council tax or rent arrears. It's ok to get a friend or family member to help, but the recommended route is to apply via a money advice agency such as Citizens Advice. 01733 421 060  



[email protected]

www.edfenergytrust.org.uk

For an application form

[email protected]

Government (from the Department for Work and Pensions)

Budgeting Loans

You could get a Budgeting Loan to help pay for essential things like rent, furniture, clothes or hire purchase debts. The smallest amount you can borrow is £100. Who can apply: You can apply for a loan if you’ve been getting income-related benefits for at least 26 weeks. Budgeting Loans won’t affect your other benefits but do need to be paid back. They are interest-free so you only pay back what you borrow. You normally have to repay the loan within 104 weeks. How to apply, download an SF500:

 www.gov.uk/government/publications/budgeting-loan-claim-form or pick a form up from your local Jobcentre Plus Contact Jobcentre Plus if you have any questions about budgeting loans Jobcentre Plus 0345 6036967  26

 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Other grants, funds and loans

Crisis Loans & Community Care Grants You can no longer apply for a Community Care Grant or a Crisis Loan (although you still have to pay back existing crisis loans). Each council has its own scheme to help people in financial hardship. In Croydon we have the Croydon Discretionary Support (CDS)



Croydon Discretionary Support Scheme (CDS) Who can apply: The new CDS scheme supports Croydon

residents over the age of 16 in times of crisis. The scheme can also help people who are moving out of institutions or residential care. People will generally also need to be in receipt of income related benefits (such as Housing Benefit, Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance, Pension Credit or Council Tax Support, or people in receipt of a disability benefit such as Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment or Attendance Allowance. Cash payments are not given, but gift cards or vouchers are issued. How to Apply: Download an application form

 www.croydon.gov.uk/sites/default/files/articles/cds-form.pdf or contact: Croydon discretionary support team 020 8760 5719  [email protected]  ↸ Croydon discretionary support team, Bernard Weatherill House,

8 Mint Walk Croydon, CR0 1EA









Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health





27

Money Worries & Debt Problems • One in 3 people with a serious mental health problem are in debt. • People with mental health problems are 3 times more likely to be in debt compared to people without • Debt can make mental health problems worse

DON’T STRUGGLE ALONE

Croydon’s Debt Advice Service is free,independent & confidential

Money Advice Service: 020 8726 6000 ext 63696 

 www.croydon.gov.uk/advice/benefits/welfare-benefits/wrtdebt

Croydon and Sutton Law Centre

Croydon Law Centre (part of South West London Law Centres) 020 8767 2777 ↸ 79 Park Lane, Croydon, CRO 1JG   [email protected]



www.swllc.org

Step Change Debt Charity They are here to help you take the first step to becoming debt free. For expert debt advice and a personal solution to your debt problems talk to one of their advisors, or use Debt Remedy, their online debt advice tool.

 Mon-Fri 8am-8pm; Sat 9am-4pm.

Speak to one of our advisors now 0800 138 1111 Freephone, including all mobiles   www.stepchange.org

28





Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Money Worries & Debt Problems

Advice Services Croydon (ASC) 2 Katherine Street, Croydon, CR0 1NX ↸

0208 686 0066 or  0208 680 5450   [email protected]

 Opening times: 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday  www.adviceservicescroydon.org.uk All Inclusive Offering one to one debt advice or signposting service

Empowering People with Practical Financial Knowledge

 0208 253 7062  [email protected]  www.allinclusivetraining.org.uk CVA Resource Centre ↸

82 London Road, West Croydon, CR0 2TB











National Debtline • Advice by phone or email • Sample letters and template to creditors • Over 49 FREE fact sheets on dealing with debt, bailiffs, court action etc. Call free on 0808 808 4000 



Monday to Friday: 9am to 9pm, Saturday 9.30am to 1pm

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

29

Money Worries & Debt Problems

Croydon Citizens Advice Bureau Service Croydon CAB Service provides free, confidential and impartial advice and information on a wide range of issues, including debts, welfare benefits, housing, employment, consumer rights and relationships. Croydon Citizens Advice offers a face to face walk in service at our offices at

South Norwood, London, SE25 4PQ ↸







New Addington, CR0 0LR, and ↸







South Norwood, 48 - 50 Portland Road, New Addington,1 Overbury, Crescent,

Croydon, CR0 1EA ↸

Access Croydon (Bernard Wetherill House, 8 Mint Walk,

Our opening hours depend on volunteer availability and are listed on our website  www.croydoncab.org.uk. Croydon CAB Service is a charity, independent of government and councils, relying on funding from grants and donations. 020 8684 2236  www.croydoncab.org.uk  Housing Advice Project: 020 8683 5206 

Iris May family law

Housing advice, and debt/money advice, The Lansdowne ↸

 

Building, 2 Lansdowne Road Croydon, CR9 2ER [email protected] or [email protected]

01914 770 055  30



iris

www.irislawfirm.com

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Money Worries & Debt Problems

Purley Cross Community Information Centre Your gateway to local services. If you are having problems getting an URGENT appointment with the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) or legal advice, contact Purley Cross centre Monday to Friday 10am-2pm  020 8668 4189 



[email protected]

 www.purleycrosscentre.com ↸ Purley Cross Centre, 24 High Street,



Purley, Surrey. CR8 2AA





Community Legal Advice

A Free Confidential Legal Advice Service. Advice on: debt problems, housing, employment, education & benefits & tax credits

 Monday to Friday 9am-8pm and Saturday 9am-12.30pm. 0845 345 4 345  www.gov.uk  Advice Services Croydon Age UK Croydon Benefit Enquiry Line Carers Information Service Croydon Welfare Advice Team Mind in Croydon Welfare Advice

    



020 8686 0066 020 8680 5450 0800 882 200 020 8649 9339 0800 731 5920







0208 763 2037 Tuesday 10am -1pm Thursday 2pm – 5pm

SLaM Welfare Benefits Team (for inpatients and patients under Home Treatment Team)





Maudsley 020 3228 2942  Bethlem 020 3228 4026

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

31

Food Hubs/Drop Ins for those in need of Food Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

↸ East Croydon Salvation Army, Food Parcels for those with a ticket.

↸ Croydon Citadel Corps, Booth Road, Croydon, Surrey CR0 1XY

↸ Croydon Food ↸ Purley Food

United Reformed Church 12:00 noon 3.00pm (Addiscombe Grove - just past East Croydon Station) Hot Meal in a friendly atmosphere.

↸ The Link,

Bank Unit 5, 46 Pilton Estate, Pitlake, Croydon. 12-2, for those with a ticket

Hub open for food collections, for those with a food ticket. 10am until 12pm Purley United Reformed Church

↸ The well,

↸ Norwood Food ↸ Croydon Minster,

Salvation Army, Booth Road Croydon 11.00am to 3.00pm. Lunch, Benefit and housing advice. Homeless health team nurses . 020 8680 9924

East Croydon United Reform Church. 7:00pm to 9:30pm Drop-in, refreshments

Bank St Luke’s Church, Knights Hill, West Norwood. 10am -1pm For those with a ticket

Monday

Church Street, Croydon. 10am – 4pm Join Mother Katherine Farrell for refreshments in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Nightwatch Soup Kitchen

↸ Croydon Minster, Church

Every night of the year

Street, Croydon. 10am – 4pm Join Mother Katherine Farrell for refreshments in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. 32

↸ Queens Gardens, , 

9:15pm to 10:00pm ,

Food, hot drink.

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Food Hubs/Drop Ins for those in need of Food Friday

Saturday

Sunday

↸ Norwood Food ↸ Purley Food Bank St Luke’s Church, Knights Hill, West Norwood. 10am-1pm For those with a ticket

Hub open for food collections, for those with a food ticket. 10am until 12pm Purley United Reformed Church

↸ Croydon

↸ Croydon

↸ Croydon



Tabernacle, 38 40 Parsons Mead, West Croydon. 8am to 9am Full English Breakfast!!!!

St Mildred’s Food Bank Unit 5, Church, Bingham 46 Pilton Estate, Rd, Addiscombe Pitlake, Croydon. 1pm - 6pm Winter, 12-2, for those with 1pm - 3pm summer a ticket Drop-in, Lunch Croydon Health Services, Homeless Health Team. Minster, Church Street, Croydon. 10am – 4pm

↸  











The Rainbow Centre, 141 Brigstock Road, Thornton Heath. 0208 251 8280 Mon-Fri 9am – 5pm, by appointment only. Usually have same day appointments.







Useful Contact Numbers Croydon Council Out of Hours Emergency Team



020 8686 4433 020 8760 0451

Salvation Army

   

Snap Duty Team



Substance Misuse

 

Lansdowne YMCA Nightwatch Palmer House YMCA

Thames Reach Outreach

020 8699 6718 020 7870 8850 020 8680 9924 020 8686 4433 ext: 63286 or 020 8760 5498 020 8604 7104 020 7870 8855

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

33

DLA to PIP Benefit Changes - Don't Panic! Remember: No one will automatically be moved from DLA to PIP Between October 2015 and 2018 (aprox) people ages between 16 and 64 will be invited to change from DLA to PIP. You don’t need to do anything until the DWP tells you to, but you must ‘make a claim’ for PIP when invited to do so, or your money will STOP.

Œ

INITIAL CONTACT You will receive a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions STOP inviting you to make a claim for PIP If you don’t don't ignore this letter. If you chose understand the not to claim PIP, then your DLA letter ask for will end. Telephone DLA if you are help unsure on 0845 7123 456 or 0345 7123 456



CLAIMING PIP (Part 1) Phone You will need to phone the DWP (0800 917 2222) and give some basic information, like your name, number, address. Have your post office or bank details and your GP details to hand.

STOP You can ask a friend or key worker to help

Ž

CLAIMING PIP (Part 2) The Form You will receive a form in the post This is your opportunity to write all about your Physical and/or Mental Health difficulties. Include ‘supporting evidence’ (from a support worker, GP, friends etc.). Return the form in the FREE envelope provided.

STOP It is worth asking for help to complete the form

34

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

DLA to PIP Benefit Changes - Don't Panic!



ASSESSMENT/MEDICAL Most people will be asked to attend a face to face meeting with a health professional to discuss how your ‘disability’ affects you.



‘ &

’

DECISION The decision maker (at DWP) will review all the information, including your form, the result of your assessment and any extra information e.g. from a GP or psychiatrist. A decision letter will be posted out to you. This will say if you have been awarded PIP, at what rate, and possibly for how long (before your claim will be reviewed)

MANDATORY RECONSIDERATION/ APPEAL If you are not happy with the decision, don’t panic. You can ask a different Decision Maker to look at your claim (this is called a Reconsideration)

STOP It is a good idea to take someone with you

STOP You can call the DWP & ask for an explanation

STOP Ask an organisation such as MIND in Croydon for help

If you are still unhappy - you can APPEAL Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

35

Personal Independence Payments Benefit Your Benefits are Changing - Don't Panic! Over the next few years most people between the ages of 16 and 64 who are on Disability Living Allowance (DLA), will be asked to make a claim for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead What is PIP? Personal Independence Payment (PIP) helps with some of the extra costs caused by long-term ill-health or a disability if you’re aged 16 to 64. PIP is replacing DLA for people of working age (from 8 April 2013). You could get between £21.55 and £138.05 a week (NB: amounts go up slightly each year) depending on how your condition affects you and the help you need (it doesn’t matter whether or not you actually get any help) Like DLA, PIP is made up of 2 components, a Daily Living component and a Mobility component. You may be entitled to either or both, at Standard or Enhanced Rate. Like DLA, You can get PIP whether you’re in work or not. • Who will be affected by the changes from DLA to PIP? • People aged between 16 and 64 who are currently in receipt of Disability Living Allowance will eventually be transferred on to PIP (but not until the DWP contacts you), probably from October 2015 onwards • People who are claiming for the first time will make a claim for PIP instead of DLA • People whose DLA award comes to an end and do not receive a DLA renewal letter will need to make a claim for PIP. You should receive a letter from the DWP telling you to claim PIP • People who report a change in their circumstances • Who will NOT be affected by the changes from DLA to PIP? • Children under the age of 16 • People aged 65 or over (before 8 April 2013) • People on Attendance Allowance • When will you have to change from DLA to PIP? 36

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Personal Independence Payments Benefit Probably not until at least October 2015, but you can check on the DWP website: www.gov.uk/pip-checker For those people affected there is no automatic transfer from DLA to PIP. The DWP will eventually ask you to make a new claim for PIP even if you have an indefinite or lifetime award of DLA. The DWP will inform you when you need to claim PIP; you don’t need to contact them. If you fail to claim PIP, your DLA award will end and you will not get any money. If you make a claim for PIP, the DWP will continue to pay DLA until four weeks after they make a decision on whether you can get it. There should be no break in payment if you move on to PIP. BE CAREFUL: Don’t forget to let the DWP know if you are affected by the following, because if you are paid PIP when you shouldn’t be, you will have to pay it back and may be issued with a fine • you go into hospital or a care home for more than 4 weeks • you go abroad for more than 13 weeks • you’re imprisoned or held in detention

Road Map for PIP - How to make a claim

Œ

INITIAL CONTACT

You will receive a letter from the DWP inviting you to make a claim for PIP. If you do not do this, your DLA will end and you will get nothing. You do NOT need to do anything until the DWP contacts you.



PIP 1 – the Phone Call

You need to phone the PIP claim line on 0800 917 2222 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm). There are different options depending on whether you have an existing claim for DLA or not. You will be asked to give some basic details about yourself to check that you can qualify for PIP. You should have your GP details, details of other professionals who care for you and Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

37

Personal Independence Payments Benefit calls, someone can do this on your behalf but you will probably need to be present during the phone call.

Ž

PIP 2 The ‘How your disability affects you’ form

Within about 2 weeks of making the phone calls, you will receive a PIP 2 form. This is your opportunity to explain how your disability affects you and the help you need (remember you don’t actually need to be getting any help to qualify). It can be helpful to ask someone who knows you well such as a health professional, care coordinator, social worker or someone in the voluntary sector, to help you fill in the form. If you can, include some supporting information such as a care plan, clinic letter or support plan with your form. Make sure you send the form back by the deadline, and phone up and ask for extra time if you need to on the PIP enquiry line: 0845 (or 0345) 850 3322



Face to Face Assessment

Most people will be asked to attend a face to face assessment with a health care professional. You will receive a letter telling you when and where you need to go. It is strongly recommended that you take someone with you to this assessment for support. If you need to take a cab, ask about getting your travel expense reimbursed before you attend. If you are unable to attend the assessment, e.g. because it is too far away or you are unwell – phone up and let them know on 0300 3300 121. It is possible to request a Home Assessment but you may need a letter from your doctor explaining why you are unable to travel to an assessment centre.



The Decision

The DWP will consider the information on your PIP 2 form and any further medical evidence you send in, along with the report from your assessment if you had one, and any information that the DWP has asked for from the professionals involved in your 38

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Personal Independence Payments Benefit care. A decision maker within the DWP will write to you to tell you whether or not you have been awarded PIP. If you are happy with the outcome, your journey ends here and you don’t need to do anything else. If you are not happy with the outcome, it is worth requesting a copy of the decision makers report if you have not received it and a copy of the face to face assessment if you had one. Phone the PIP enquiry line on: 0845 (or 0345) 850 3322.

‘

Mandatory Reconsideration

If you are not awarded PIP, you will receive a letter stating that although you have a disability you have not been awarded enough points to qualify for PIP. If you are not happy about the decision, it is worth seeking advice from a Welfare Benefits Agency about whether to appeal. If you decide to Appeal the DWPs decision not to award you PIP or to award you one component but not the other (e.g. daily living but not mobility), or to give you a lower award than you think you should get for either component (e.g. standard but not enhanced) –you will need to tell the DWP that you want them to look at your claim again – this is called a Mandatory Reconsideration. You will need to phone the DWP (0845 (or 0345) 850 3322) stating your reasons for wanting them to look again at their decision. You will normally have 28 days from the date you receive the decision letter to do this. However, if it has been more than 28 days, it is still important that you challenge the decision, but also tell the DWP why it has taken you a long time to contact them, e.g. your mental health has been poor, or you needed more support because of your mental health. It is also a good idea to write to them (at the address on the top of the decision letter) asking them to reconsider their decision and to include, if possible any further medical evidence you may have. You can also ask the DWP to speak to someone who can help you to explain your disability such as your care coordinator or Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

39

Personal Independence Payments Benefit support worker. A different decision maker will look at your claim and all the information they have about your disability and you will be sent another letter, stating whether or not they have changed their mind. If you are still not happy, you can then ask to APPEAL. NB: you cannot Appeal the decision without asking for a Mandatory Reconsideration first.

’

APPEAL

It is strongly recommended that you seek advice and support at this stage (e.g. from MIND in Croydon). You will need to write to the Tribunals Service, stating briefly that you want to appeal the decision on your PIP and the reasons why: You can either fill out a form called an SSCS1 or write a letter.



HM Courts and Tribunals Service Social Security & Child Support Appeals Copthall House 9 The Pavement, Grove Road Sutton SM1 1DA





IMPORTANT: You must appeal within 1 calendar month of the date on the mandatory reconsideration decision letter and include your mandatory reconsideration notice (you will be sent 2 copies in the post). Again, if it has been longer than one month – still appeal, and state your reasons for being late. IMPORTANT: Appeals are very often successful, even more so if you request an oral hearing (i.e. you or a representative attend the appeal in person) – so don’t be put off, you have nothing to lose. MIND in Croydon have an excellent success rate at Appeal – phone their Advice Line which is currently available on Tuesdays between 10am - 1pm and on Thursdays 2pm - 5pm. 020 8763 2037 - Leave a message outside of these times 40

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Personal Independence Payments Benefit The Citizens Advice Bureau can also offer advice Advice Line:  020 8684 2236 USEFUL NUMBERS MIND IN CROYDON WELFARE BENEFITS ADVICE LINE:  0208 763 2037 Opening times Tuesday 10am – 1pm & Thursday 2pm – 5pm CROYDON COUNCIL WELFARE RIGHTS ADVICE LINE:  0800 731 5920



Opening times Monday 2.00 - 7.00 Tuesday 3.00 - 4.30 Wednesday 11.00 - 2.00 Friday 9.00 - 12.00











CROYDON CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU ADVICE LINE:  020 8684 2236 Opening times Monday – Friday 10am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm Department for Work and Pensions Disability Living Allowance

0845 7123 456 or 0345 7123 456

Personal Independence Payment – claim line 0800 917 2222 Personal Independence Payment – enquiry line 0845 (or 0345) 850 3322 To speak to someone about your PIP medical assessment appointment 0300 3300 121 USEFUL WEBSITES/LINKS



www.hear-us.org/pip-guide

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

41

Universal Credit

Making a Universal Credit claim To make a claim online you’ll need to have some information to hand. This can include:

Your personal information National insurance number

Your email address

Your phone number

Your landlord’s address

How much rent you are paying

Your housing information

Your address

Your financial information

Your bank account details

Any salary or other income

Details of any savings you have

Go to www.gov.uk/universalcredit to make a claim. This needs to be done in one sitting so please have this information with you when you begin your claim. From summer 2014 Universal Credit can be claimed by some couples in certain areas of the UK. Both claimants will need to have the information listed above to hand. Only one member of the couple will complete the claim form, but that person will need to enter details for both of you. 42

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Universal Credit Housing Benefit Working Tax Credits

Child Tax Credit

Universal Credit Imcome Support Income Based Employment and Support

Income Based Jobseekers Allowance

Some Facts about Universal Credit (UC) Universal credit will eventually replace benefits for people who are out of work and tax credits for people in work Universal Credit will replace six main working age benefits with one simple payment Universal Credit will be rolled out across England. Not everyone will be affected at once and some people won’t be affected for many months. When you can claim will depend on where you live and your personal circumstances. You will be told when to claim. If a claimant can’t work, e.g. because they are not well enough, they will still get the benefits they need Universal Credit will be claimed on line (www.gov.uk/applyuniversal-credit) but local services will be available to provide face to face help and there is a help line available (see below). There is a UC help line 0345 6000 723. Lines are open 8.00am to Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

43

Universal Credit 6.00pm, Monday to Friday Certain benefits like Disability Living Allowance and Personal Independence Payment will not be affected by UC Other Benefits that will still continue include • child benefit • contribution-based jobseeker's allowance • contribution-based employment and support allowance • carer's allowance Budgeting Loans will no longer exist Universal Credit is for people in work and out of work Universal Credit will be paid into a Bank Account or Building Society Account (people who only have a post office account or use simple payments will need to open a bank account) There will be one payment per household, and the payment will be monthly If you are a couple you will make one joint claim for UC There is no limit on how many hours of work you can do with UC – i.e. no 16 hour rule If you start to work the amount of Universal Credit you get will gradually reduce as you earn more. Unlike Jobseeker’s Allowance, your payment won’t stop when you work more than 16 hours a week. The more you work, the higher your total income (from earnings and benefits combined) will be. With Universal Credit you won’t lose all your benefits at once if you start to do some work and are on a low income. Providing your income and savings don't go above certain limits, you can carry on claiming universal credit if you are working or out of work. Universal credit may help people on low incomes who move in and out of work by reducing the problems caused by benefits stopping and starting. 44

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Benefits - help, advice and contact numbers

Benefit Enquiry Line for General Advice

Advice and information for disabled people and carers on the full range of benefits available and how to claim them. The line also offers help with claim form completion for certain benefits.

 Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 6.30 pm,

Saturday 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

Freephone 0800 88 22 00 

Mind in Croydon Welfare Benefits Advice This Service offers • support with appeals and tribunals • support with complex benefits issues • general telephone advice on all types of benefit issues • support and guidance to professionals and/or service users Do I need to be referred? Yes, The Welfare Benefits Advice service is available by referral from professionals working with mental health service users and their carers; Telephone Enquires from service users and carers are also accepted.

 Monday - Friday: 9:00 till 17:00

020 8763 2037   [email protected] www.mindincroydon.org.uk  ↸ 26 Pampisford Road, Purley Surrey, CR8 2NE





Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health



45

Benefits - help, advice and contact numbers

Advice Services Croydon ASC offers practical help and advice to maintain your independence and quality of life ASC provides a range of information, advice and support services for people living in Croydon. Our Information and Advice services include: • Information • Advice & Welfare Benefits • Self Help Support • We also provide Advocacy services. Helpline 020 8686 0066   [email protected]  www.adviceservicescroydon.org.uk

Croydon Welfare Rights Advice Line This Project aims to help people claim benefits, particularly health related benefits (sickness benefits) • • • •

assistance with the completion of claim forms representation at appeals and tribunals, benefits checks to look at maximising income offering home visits to clients who are unable to travel

Monday 2pm - 7pm  Tuesday 3pm - 4.30pm

Wednesday 11am - 2pm Friday 9am - 12noon











FREEPHONE 0800 731 5920  www.croydon.gov.uk  46

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Benefits - help, advice and contact numbers

A to Z of Useful Numbers for Benefits 

Access to Work Grants

0845 268 8489 0345 268 8489

Appeals and Tribunals Service



0300 123 1142

Atos (now called Centre for Health and Disability Assessments) for ESA Atos PIP Customer Service (for PIP assessment appointments)



0800 288 8777



0300 3300 121

Attendance Allowance helpline

   

0345 605 6055

Benefit Enquiry Line Bereavement Service helpline Blue Badge (Travel Services) Budgeting Loans



Carers Allowance

Child Tax Credits Cold Weather Payment Council Tax



020 8726 7100

0345 608 4321



   

0800 288 8777

0300 200 3100 0345 300 3900 0345 604 3719 0208 726 7000 option 1

Croydon Discretionary Support (CDS) Croydon Rent in Advance Scheme Croydon Staying Put Dial A Ride Disability Living Allowance

0345 606 0265

0845 603 6967 or 0345 603 6967

Centre for Health and Disability Assessments Child Benefit Enquiries

0800 882 200



   

020 8760 5719 0208 683 5151 0208 760 5505 0343 222 7777

0845 7123 456 or 0345 7123 456

Discretionary Housing Payments



020 8604 7226

Employment and Support Allowance New Claims



0800 055 6688

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

47

Benefits - help, advice and contact numbers Employment and Support Allowance



  

Freedom Pass Helpline: Funeral Payments Help with Health Costs



Housing Benefit

HMRC Employees Advice line (statutory sick pay) Incapacity Benefit



Income Support



Job Seekers Allowance



0345 606 0265 0300 123 0849

0208 726 7000 option 2



0300 200 3500

New claims: 0800 055 66 88 Existing claim: 0345 608 8545 or 0845 608 8545 option 2

  

Maternity Grant (Sure Start) Pension Credit Service



0300 330 1433

0345 608 8545 or 0845 608 8545 Option 4 0345 608 8545 or 0845 608 8545 Option 1

Maternity Allowance

PIP Enquiry Line

0345 608 8545 or 0845 608 8545 Option 3

0800 055 6688 0345 603 6967 0800 99 1234

0845 850 3322 or 0345 850 3322

PIP New Claims Prescription Prepayment Certificate Simple Payments Helpline Social Fund

   

0800 917 2222 0300 330 1341 0845 600 0046

0845 603 6967 0845 415 4156 or 020 7934 9791 Taxi Card  Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm TV Licensing (discount for people in  0300 790 6071 residential care) Universal Credit helpline  0345 600 0723 Warm Home Discount Scheme



0345 603 9439 Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Winter Fuel Payment helpline Working Tax Credits 48

 

0845 915 1515 0345 300 3900

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

Index A Advice Services Croydon (ASC) 29, 46 All Inclusive 29 Asylum Help 13 A to Z of Useful Numbers for Benefits 47

B

Benefit Enquiry Line for General Advice 45 Budgeting Loans 26

C

CAYSH 18 Citizens Advice Bureau 17, 30 Cold Weather Payments 24 Community Legal Advice 31 Council Tax 20 Crisis 15 Crisis Loans & Community Care Grants 27 Croydon and Sutton Law Centre 28 Croydon Council Housing Team 10 Croydon Discretionary Support Scheme 27 Croydon Reach Rough Sleeper Service 14 Croydon Welfare Rights Advice Line 46

D E F Food Hubs 32 Freedom Passes 4

G

Getting Around, Mobility & Travel 4

H

Hestia 12 Housing Benefit 22 Housing Support: Useful Numbers? 19

I

Immediate needs table 5; Beckenham Beacon NHS Urgent Care Centre 8; Croydon Churches Floating Shelter 6; Croydon Council; No Recourse to public funds Team 9; Croydon Health Services Homeless Health Team 7; Croydon Reach 5; Croydon Tabernacle 7; Croydon University Hospital A&E 7; Department of Adult Service Health & Housing 9; Department of children families& learning 9; Discretionary Support- crisis payment 9; East Croydon United Reform Church 7; Emergency Duty Team 5; Family Justice Centre Croydon 8; Men’s Advice Line 8; National Domestic Violence Helpline 8; Nightwatch 6; No Second Night Out Project 5; SNAP TEAM 5, 6; South London and Maudsley Hospital 8;

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

49

Index St Mildred’s Church 7; The Well drop-in centre 6; Westminster Drug Project Croydon outreach 8 Iris May family law 30

Shelter 11 SNAP (Support Needs Assessment & Placement Team) 10 Step Change Debt Charity 28 Street Link 15

J

T

K

The National Domestic Violence Helpline 14

L

U

M

V

Migrant Help 12 Mind in Croydon Welfare Benefits Advice 45 Money Advice Service 28

N

National Debtline 29 Night Watch 16 Nightwatch Soup Kitchen 32 No Second Night Out Project 5

O

W Warm Home Discount Scheme 24 Winter Fuel Payments 24 Womens Aid 14

X Y Z

P PIP Road Map 34 Purley Cross Community Information Centre 31

Q R Refuge 14 Refugee Action 13

S 50

Working Together for Change and Better Understanding in Mental Health

HEAR US

Croydon's Mental Health Service User Group

Hear Us Aims and Objectives • To relieve the needs of people living in the London Borough of Croydon and surrounding areas who have mental health problems by provision of services and advice • To advance education about mental health for the public benefit in the London borough of Croydon and surrounding areas with the object of creating awareness HEAR US MEMBERSHIP How much does it cost? - Membership is totally free. What are the Benefits of Membership to Hear Us? Our goal is to help service users have a voice. The bigger our membership the stronger our voice becomes: • Raising your awareness of other support groups • Providing valuable information about Mental Health Services • Providing you with FREE quarterly newsletters, information about events and involvement opportunities • Giving you a say in the future of Hear Us activities 020 8681 6888 

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[email protected] www.hear-us.org

↸ Hear Us

Orchard House, 15a Purley Road South Croydon CR2 6EZ Company No.6891337 Charity No.1135535